Motor Vehicle Operator, Elderly and Handicapped Persons

Overview

Motor Vehicle Operators (MVOs) are responsible for providing safe and reliable transportation services to eligible Middlesex County residents. This includes individuals 60 years of age and older, persons with disabilities (18 ), veterans, and the general public within the county. MVOs are expected to transport passengers to their destinations while maintaining a positive, friendly, courteous, and professional demeanor.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Safe Passenger Transport: Operate a vehicle to provide curb-to-curb transportation services for elderly individuals, persons with disabilities, and the general public, ensuring passengers are safely transported to and from their destinations.
• Passenger Assistance: Assist passengers in and out of vehicles, particularly those using wheelchairs or mobility devices. Operate hydraulic lifts as necessary to help passengers board and disembark the vehicle. Secure mobility devices and wheelchairs safely within the vehicle.
• Vehicle Inspections & Maintenance: Perform pre-trip and post-trip vehicle inspections to ensure safe operation. Clean and perform minor servicing tasks (e.g., adding oil, windshield washer fluid). Maintain cleanliness and functionality throughout the day.
• Communication & Reporting: Maintain daily trip reports, vehicle repair requests, and communicate any changes or updates to the schedule using a 2-way radio or tablet. Use electronic or manual recording systems as required by RIDE or related county units.
• Safety Compliance: Adhere to all safety protocols and job instructions, ensuring the safe and professional operation of vehicles at all times.

Qualifications:

• A valid New Jersey CDL-B or higher with Passenger Endorsement is required. Licenses with restrictions may be considered at the discretion of the Authorizing Authorities.
• This position is classified as “Safety Sensitive” under the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) regulations and is subject to drug and alcohol testing as per Title 49, CFR parts 653-655, and Title 49, CFR part 40.
• Knowledge of safe vehicle operation, including the procedures for transporting elderly, disabled, and general public passengers.
• Ability to learn and navigate the geography of Middlesex County efficiently.
• Ability to interact with elderly passengers and persons with disabilities in a compassionate, empathetic, and professional manner. Must maintain a calm and understanding demeanor.
• MVOs will work outdoors 100% of the time, including during inclement weather and varying temperatures, from extreme heat to extreme cold.
• MVOs may be exposed to bodily fluids (clean-up kits and training provided) and face work hazards such as traffic and mechanical issues (e.g., wheelchair lifts, securement systems).
• MVOs may encounter different terrains, including slippery, sloping, unstable, or uneven surfaces.
• Must be able to read, write, speak, and understand English sufficiently to perform job duties. American Sign Language may be considered an acceptable form of communication.
• Provide exceptional service to passengers, ensuring they are treated with respect and care at all times.
• Physical Requirements: Ability to manipulate wheelchairs and other mobility devices and securely fasten them in the vehicle. Ability to push and pull passengers with mobility devices and assist with their boarding. Ability to lift up to 20 pounds frequently.
• Perform other duties as assigned by supervisors to meet the needs of the program.

Middlesex County is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability status, or any other characteristic protected by law.